Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that brings the family together, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just delicious; they’re a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this recipe is a family favorite in my home. Everyone loves how easy they are to whip up, and they make for great leftovers too!

Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the warm, inviting aroma of fresh herbs and savory turkey. These little balls of joy are packed with wholesome ingredients and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries, making them a hit at any meal. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or as part of your main course, you can count on them to bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and less than 30 minutes in the oven, these stuffing balls fit right into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the bite-sized shape and tasty flavors, making it a wonderful way to get everyone involved in dinner.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time and store them in the fridge or even freeze them for later!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of turkey, cranberries, and herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create these tasty Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. This list features everything you need to make this dish shine!

For the Stuffing Balls

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 4 cups dried bread cubes
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some finely diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to add more depth to the flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread cubes to cater to those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your stuffing balls cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden-brown color we all love.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This mixture forms the base of our stuffing balls. The bread absorbs all those lovely flavors while providing structure!

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is where all the savory goodness comes together—ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Form Your Balls

Gently combine the turkey mixture with the bread cube mixture until everything is well incorporated. Shape this mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Don’t worry if they seem a bit loose; they’ll firm up beautifully while baking!

Step 5: Bake Them Up

Pop those bad boys in your preheated oven! Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown on the outside. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Enjoy making these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re sure to become a staple in your home just like they are in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making these stuffing balls is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate them to perfection!

• Use stale bread cubes: Stale bread absorbs moisture better, resulting in a firmer texture that holds up during baking. If your bread is fresh, simply leave it out overnight or toast it lightly before using.

• Chill the mixture: After combining all ingredients, chill the mixture for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to form the balls without them falling apart.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can add a delightful twist and enhance flavor.

• Adjust the size of the balls: For bite-sized appetizers, make smaller balls. If you’re serving these as a main dish, larger ones can be more satisfying.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the baked stuffing balls rest for a few minutes before serving allows them to set and makes them easier to handle.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls can be presented in so many wonderful ways! Whether as an appetizer or part of a main dish, they are sure to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: Serve alongside some homemade cranberry sauce for a delicious sweet contrast that complements the savory stuffing balls.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs enhances both nutrition and flavor. Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes for that comforting touch.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the stuffing balls.

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit! They pair beautifully with stuffing balls and make for a classic comfort food combination.

• Green beans almondine: Bright green beans sautéed with toasted almonds offer crunch and elegance while contributing additional nutrients to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls will shine at any dinner table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy them later, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly so you can savor every bite.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Arrange the cooked stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions about these delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that may help you out.

Can I use different bread types for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Absolutely! While dried bread cubes work best for texture, you can use any type of bread you have on hand. Just make sure it’s dried out enough to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.

How do I ensure my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls hold their shape?

To help your stuffing balls maintain their shape, be sure to combine all ingredients thoroughly and allow them to rest for a few minutes before baking. This gives the mixture a chance to bind together!

Can I substitute ground turkey in this recipe?

Yes! Ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives can be used as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on what you choose.

What should I serve with these stuffing balls?

These stuffing balls make a fantastic side dish for any holiday meal or family dinner. Pair them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They not only bring comfort but also create wonderful memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or celebrating with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!